Rita Simons has pulled out of tonight’s performance of her Legally Blonde musical

A post read: “Due to illness, Rita Simons won’t be performing in tonights Legally Blonde National Tour 17/18. Rita’s understudy, Lucyelle Cliffe will be playing the part of Paulette.

“Apologies for any inconvenience caused.”

Those who watched Rita, 40, perform last night shared their relief that they got to see the star before her sudden withdrawal.

Earlier this month EastEnders viewers were left rubbing their eyes in disbelief when Rita’s Roxy Mitchell and her on-screen sister Ronnie (Samantha Womack) “appeared” in Walford’s cafe having a chat – despite having drowned in a tragic swimming pool struggle on Ronnie’s wedding day.